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Warning issued as fishing litter incident takes the lives of three Cardiff gulls

Three gulls have had to be put to sleep after being found trapped in fishing litter in the Cardiff area.

RSPCA Cymru worked with Cardiff City Council, and South Wales Fire & Rescue, to help the birds on 17 January – but, unfortunately, their injuries were too severe and they had to be put to sleep.

The charity was alerted after a gull was spotted hanging from one wing from a tree, tangled amid the branches 30 foot from the floor, behind the Fairwater Pub. It is believed the wire had got stuck to the gull’s body, before the bird flew into the trees.

Sadly, two other gulls were found in neighbouring gardens, having succumb to a similar fate, with both having severely damaged wings.

“This is another deeply sad reminder as to the dangers of fishing litter to Wales’ wildlife. We believe these three birds flew into these trees after getting fishing litter caught in their skin, elsewhere.

“RSPCA Cymru is grateful to both Cardiff Council, and South Wales Fire & Rescue Service for their help with this attempted rescue. Sadly, the damage to the gull’s wings was just too severe, and there was no choice but for all three to be put to sleep.

“We will continue to work closely with the angling community, and others, to highlight the dangers of fishing litter. From taking unwanted line home, to disposing safely of rubbish, there’s lots of straightforward steps which can be taken to protect our nation’s wildlife.”

Should you wish to support the RSPCA, you can give £3 now by texting HELP to 78866 (text costs £3 and one standard network rate message). We are a charity and rely on public donations to exist.